Good morning on this very early Saturday, September 18th. In a recent blog I quoted the verse, "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord," and observed that any nation that honors and obeys God will enjoy God's blessings. This principle is clearly illustrated in comparing the two kingdoms of Israel in the Old Testament. The kingdom of Israel was united under the rules of Saul, David, and Solomon, but split when Solomon's son and successor Rehoboam refused the people's request to reduce their overwhelming tax burden. The twelve tribes of Israel subsequently divided into two separate kingdoms, the Northern Kingdom consisting of the ten northern tribes and the Southern Kingdom consisting of the two southern tribes. The Southern Kingdom continued under the rule of Rehoboam and the Northern Kingdom under the rule of their selected ruler, Jeroboam, the son of Nebat. Both kingdoms lasted for many years with each having a total of nineteen kings. But there was a significant difference in their leaders and people's relationship with God. All nineteen kings of the Northern Kingdom were evil and led the people into sin. Again and again we read, "The children of Israel did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord." Evey one of their kings followed in the footsteps of Jeroboam who was described as evil, but the Southern Kingdom enjoyed a number of king's rulership who honored God and led them to obey the Lord. In fact some of their kings led the people in revival and a return to God's principles. The Northern Kingdom was conquered by the Assyrians in 721 B.C., but the Southern Kingdom lasted until 606 B.C. when they were conquered by the Babylonians. This 115 year difference in their existence was evidence of the Lord's blessing on the Southern Kingdom because of their making God their Lord and following Him. There is a dynamic message for any nation in this illustration. America are you listening?
Tomorrow's message is entitled, Experiencing The Presence And Power Of God. I hope to see you there.
Mel Brown